Before You Unpack in a Hotel Room, Do This First — A Simple Trick for Safety You Probably Never Thought Of

Traveling to new places brings excitement, new experiences, and unforgettable memories. Whether you’re on a business trip, a romantic getaway, or a solo vacation, one thing we all rely on is a hotel room that feels like a safe haven. But in an age where stories of hidden cameras and security breaches make headlines, it’s crucial to be more aware and alert — especially when staying alone.

Your hotel room might look perfectly clean, luxurious even — but appearances can be deceiving. That’s why a few smart, proactive safety habits can go a long way in protecting your privacy and peace of mind.

And it all starts with… a simple water bottle.

Why Toss a Water Bottle Under the Bed?

It might sound bizarre at first — tossing a water bottle under the bed right after checking in — but this trick, shared by seasoned KLM flight attendant Esther Sturrs, has gained serious attention for a reason.

Here’s how it works: as soon as you enter your hotel room, take a regular-sized water bottle and roll or throw it under one side of the bed. Watch what happens.

If the bottle rolls out the other side or comes back toward you, the space under the bed is clear.

But if the bottle gets stuck, doesn’t come out, or behaves unusually — it could mean there’s something (or someone) under the bed.

Yes, someone. It may sound dramatic, but there have been rare cases where intruders or even dangerous individuals have hidden under beds in hotel rooms. This bottle trick gives you a hands-free, no-risk way to check that space without bending down or putting yourself in a vulnerable position.

Don’t Forget the Usual Suspects: Check More Than Just the Obvious

While most travelers check the bathroom or peek behind the curtains, areas like under the bed often get ignored. And that’s what makes them a potential hiding spot.

So what else should you inspect when entering a hotel room?

Behind the curtains – Ensure there’s nothing or no one hiding behind them.

Inside the closet – Look behind hanging clothes or inside drawers.

Bathroom spaces – Shower areas, behind the door, and under the sink should be scanned quickly.

This process takes less than five minutes but offers great peace of mind.

Place Your Suitcase Near the Door – Here’s Why

This may seem like a random suggestion, but placing your suitcase near the entrance of your room can act as a silent alarm. If someone attempts to enter while you’re inside — especially when you’re asleep — the suitcase can make a sound, shift, or even fall, alerting you to movement.

It’s a small, passive way to increase your chances of reacting quickly to any unexpected intrusion.

Use the Room Locker — But Don’t Just Use It for Valuables

Most hotel lockers are used to store passports, cash, and important items. But Esther recommends placing something you can’t leave without in there — like your shoes.

Why?

Because many travelers forget to retrieve their belongings from lockers during the rush of check-out. But no one walks out of a hotel barefoot. If your shoes are in the locker, you’re far more likely to remember checking it before leaving.

This is a surprisingly effective way to avoid losing important items, especially when you’re packing in a hurry or dealing with early morning departures.

Extra Tips for a Safe Hotel Stay

To take your personal safety a notch higher, here are a few bonus suggestions:

Use the door stopper – If you’re inside, especially alone, use a wedge or door stopper to prevent unwanted entry.

Cover peepholes – Use a tissue or small piece of paper to cover the door’s peephole from the inside to avoid prying eyes.

Check for hidden cameras – Look out for unusual objects pointing toward the bed or bathroom area. Use your phone’s flashlight to reflect off suspicious mirrors or devices.

While the chances of encountering danger in a hotel room are low — especially in reputable hotels — safety is never something to take for granted. Just a few thoughtful habits can make all the difference.

Tossing a water bottle under the bed. Placing your suitcase by the door. Keeping your shoes in the locker. These aren’t just quirky travel hacks — they’re simple, effective steps toward making your temporary home-away-from-home feel just a bit more secure.